Repositioning your loved one regularly supports their comfort and helps protect their skin. When the body stays in one position for too long, pressure builds up in certain areas and can lead to soreness or skin irritation. Gently changing positions every two to three hours during the day, and as needed at night, helps improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

This article is Part 4 of our Safe Movement at Home series. The basic body mechanics covered in Part 1: Getting Started — keeping movements close, bending at your knees, using a draw sheet — apply here too.

Before You Begin

• Gather pillows for support — you will use several to keep your loved one comfortable on their side.
• Adjust the bed height to reduce strain on your back.
• If you have a draw sheet — a smaller sheet placed under the hips and torso — put it in place. It lets you pull rather than lift.
• Explain what you are about to do.

To Turn Your Loved One Onto Their Side

1. Bend the knee that is farthest from you.
2. Gently bring the arm farthest from you across their body.
3. Stand close. Using the draw sheet, guide them toward you while supporting their shoulder and hip.
4. Move slowly and keep them close to your body. This helps you stay in control and reduces strain on your back.

Once They Are On Their Side

1. Place a pillow behind their back for support.
2. Place a pillow between their knees to reduce pressure.
3. Place a pillow under their top arm for comfort.
4. Adjust their head so the neck rests in a natural position.
5. Smooth out any wrinkles in clothing or bedding — wrinkles can cause skin irritation over time.

A good moment to check the skin

Once your loved one is on their side, take a gentle look at their skin — especially around the hips, tailbone and heels. Catching changes early helps prevent discomfort. Please share anything you notice with your care team, including redness, broken skin or anything that does not look right.

In the next article, we walk through changing a brief in bed — a care activity that often goes hand in hand with repositioning.

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At MJHS, we value both personal and professional caregivers and recognize the critical work you do. That is why we have created these online caregiving resources to help you through this crucial time in your life.

If you need additional help and support caring for your loved one, please feel free to contact MJHS. We can recommend other care options available to you through one of our programs.